Situation: When a shock absorber is faulty on one side (leaking, noises, limit values exceeded on the shock tester), often both shock absorbers on the axle in question are replaced.
Effect: This is not necessary for technical reasons and causes the manufacturer not to recognize the unnecessarily removed shock absorbers as defective parts. Unnecessarily high costs for the customer can be avoided by replacing the shock absorber on one side only.
Procedure: If one shock absorber is damaged, it is only necessary to replace both shock absorbers when the car has driven in excess of 80 000 km.
Exception: On all M-GmbH models, when a limit value is exceeded on one side, it is still necessary always to replace both shock absorbers on the relevant axle.
BMW X3 Service & Repair Manual > Front trim panel: Removing and installing front panel
Necessary preliminary tasks:
Remove FRONT BUMPER TRIM .
Unlock plug-in connector (1) for horn and disconnect.
Shown on left side, right side identical.
Open clutch (1) and detach Bowden cable for hood/bonnet release.
Release screw (2).
Unlock plug connection (3) for headlight and ...